Overview
- Starfelt missed the last 12 matches for Celta after developing a recurring lumbar problem, a situation publicized on Friday, May 29.
- He traveled to Sweden to help win the World Cup playoff against Poland but returned to Vigo with worsened lumbalgia that halted his club season.
- Celta sent him to a Madrid specialist, La Voz de Galicia reported a herniated disc diagnosis, and the player has rejected surgery so he can keep World Cup chances alive.
- Sweden’s medical staff, led by Jonas Werner, say conservative rehabilitation has shown steady progress and they are working with Celta medics to have him ready for the opener.
- Starfelt is being monitored day-to-day in Solna, may feature in pre-tournament friendlies against Norway and Greece if recovery continues, and his availability will affect Sweden’s defensive options in a tight recovery window before the June tournament.